Line-Ups
Sharks: Fassi; Keyter, Hooker, Esterhuizen, Mapimpi; Jordan Hendrikse, Williams; Nche, Mbonambi, Nyakane, Etzebeth (captain), Van Heerden, J Venter, Tshituka, Kolisi.
Replacements: Richardson, Mchunu, Jacobs, Jenkins, Buthelezi, Jaden Hendrikse, Masuku, F Venter.
Exeter: Hodge; Feyi-Waboso, Hammersley, Tua, Wyatt; Haydon-Wood, Townsend; Sio, Frost, Street, Molina, Capstick, E Roots, Vermeulen (captain), Fisilau.
Replacements: Innard, Goodrick-Clarke, J Roots, Tshiunza, Vintcent, Becconsall, Skinner, Rigg.
Investec Champions Cup
Sharks (26) 39
Tries: Buthelezi, Mapimpi, Williams, Kolisi 2
Conversions: Jordan Hendrikse 4
Penalties: Jordan Hendrikse 2
Exeter (14) 21
Tries: Frost 2, Feyi-Waboso
Conversions: Hodge 3
Sharks managed to secure a 39-21 victory over Exeter Chiefs in the Investec Champions Cup. Despite being reduced to 12 players at one point due to three quick yellow cards, Sharks overcame an early strong start by Exeter.
Exeter opened the scoring through Dan Frost’s try and gained momentum as Frost struck again later in the game. However, Sharks responded with four consecutive tries, taking a commanding lead of 26-14.
South Africa’s national team captain, Siya Kolisi, delivered an outstanding performance, helping Sharks extend their lead to 22 points in a short time. Kolisi’s dominance was evident, as he scored two of Sharks’ five tries, both involving unopposed 20-meter runs.
Although Exeter continues to struggle this season, with most of their losses being by narrow margins, this performance could be seen as a positive sign of improvement. Sharks, on the other hand, appear to hold a significant advantage with Kolisi in their squad, showcasing his immense impact throughout the match.